While there are hundreds of yard tools you could choose, the following are the basic essential yard and garden tools that should be in your starting or on-going collection:

• Rake – Probably two (yard and bow)
• Lawn mower – Preferably power with mulching capability
• Broom – Push broom if you only have one
• Hose – Non-crimping model if you can afford it
• Spray nozzle – One with multi-spray choices
• Spade – Handy for garden work
• Flat shovel – If you have two, make the second a round-end shovel
• Sprinkler – Variety to choose from. Personal preference and yard size will dictate.
• Edging tool – Keep lawn and garden edges looking good
• Electric weed trimmer – Less expensive than a gas trimmer – fine for smaller yards
• Weeding tool – Hand-held is fine
• Pruning shears – Strong and sharp
• Electric hedge trimmer – 16 to 18 inches should be fine
• Garden gloves – More than one pair would be in order
• Tarp for moving clippings – Easy to use and cheap
• String and stakes – Needed for supporting plants
• Spreader – Drop or broadcast variety – for seed, fertilizer, and insect control treatment
• Tiller – If you have a garden, this becomes a must-have tool
• Trowel – Multi-uses in a garden
• Bow saw – will be used for more tasks than you can think of

What are the appropriate types of tools to give as a gift? If you’re considering giving a serious weekend tool warrior one or more additions to his/her garage tool kit, caution is the key word. This advice also would apply if your friend or family member was a serious golfer, softball player, sailor, stamp collector, artist, etc. People who are serious about their hobby know much more about it than you do. They know what they want, what they have, and probably have favorite brand names of the things they have or need. In this case, an attractively presented garage tool set that contains less than quality tools or is composed of hand or power tools the recipient already has, is not a good idea.

If you want to contribute to a garage tool collection, here are two tips to make it work. First, forget the surprise and directly ask if there is a specific tool or set that he/she wants or needs. Also ask if they prefer a particular manufacturer (DeWalt, Husky, Craftsman, etc.) for the tool they need. While the mystery will be gone, your recipient will be much happier. Second, if you must retain the surprise factor, at least find out where your tool-lover likes to purchase power and hand tools. Whether online or in person, you can purchase a gift card to any tool retailer in any amount that fits your budget, and your gift recipient will be thrilled. If not his/her favorite gift, it will rank right near the top. Guaranteed!